Commissioned Life
November 28th, 2008
Scripture:
“For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.”I Thes. 3:8
Observation:
Paul is experiencing relief, joy and excitement to know those he shared and lived out the Gospel with (1 Thes. 2:8) are now standing strong in his absence. You can see Paul’s dedication to the Great Commission (Matt. 28:18-20) come alive in this passage. He lives to see people not only come to the saving knowledge of Your name but also to see them fully embrace You in a growing and dedicated relationship.
Application:
I live for so many things. Some are noble — family, friends, making people laugh, encouraging people, helping the helpless. Some are not so noble — my satisfaction, my pleasure, my comfort. In the midst of all these things that make my heart beat, I have a passion to see people come to know You. To watch them turn away from an empty life and begin following You. I also love to see people grow in their faith and I love to watch You become more and more evident in their life. I am challenged this morning that this priority of mine, mixed somewhere in between my passion for my family and my passion for football is to say the least … out of place. I want to live to be part of the process of developing disciples. After all, that is the commission you gave 2,000 years ago and the one I responded to over 12 years ago in my own life.
I live for so many things. Some are noble — family, friends, making people laugh, encouraging people, helping the helpless. Some are not so noble — my satisfaction, my pleasure, my comfort. In the midst of all these things that make my heart beat, I have a passion to see people come to know You. To watch them turn away from an empty life and begin following You. I also love to see people grow in their faith and I love to watch You become more and more evident in their life. I am challenged this morning that this priority of mine, mixed somewhere in between my passion for my family and my passion for football is to say the least … out of place. I want to live to be part of the process of developing disciples. After all, that is the commission you gave 2,000 years ago and the one I responded to over 12 years ago in my own life.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for reminding me what you have called me to. Why I am here in the first place? Paul’s life was marked by a passionate obedience and love for your commission. May my life be as well.
— Jason Smith, student pastor, Madison/Ridgeland campus